The Dong Ding available at Hou De is awesome. I currently have a few ounces in my posession and have enjoyed it very much. I must warn you though, it is a "Traditional Dong Ding" so may not be what you are expecting (though like i said, it is excellent)

The style of Dong-Ding oolong also experienced major changes: the traditional style - "Hong Shui"(red liquor) oolong - was more oxidized (~60%) and less roasted than what we are seeing today. It is because more oxidized the teas, more stable the quality become. In the old time when the only means of transportation is by foot, it was vital to have a stable quality of teas that can survive the long time of transportation. Moreover, the higher oxidized oolongs enabled the tea farmers/merchants to store them safely for several years without the help of modern tools such as refrigeration, vacuum or nitrogen.

On the other hand, the lighter oxidized (~30%) and more roasted style was fashioned by the famous annual Lu-Gu Tea Competition. The lighter oxidation allows the judges to inspect the nature of the tea leaves easily. The lighter oxidized Dong-Ding oolong has to reply on a heavier roasting to bring out the mellowness and complexity.

I ordered a Shan Lin Shee, but they sent me Luu-Guu 'Tung-Ting' instead. Fortunately I really really liked it, so about half way through the tin I sent them an email saying they sent me the wrong thing, but don't sweat it cause I liked what they sent. Well, they ignored me, appoligized for the error and sent me what I ordered and told me not to worry about the 'mistake'. Not nessesary, but I appreciate that kind of customer service. I'll definately order from them again.

Last edited by tenuki on Mar 12th, '07, 01:24, edited 1 time in total.

I have been checking them out for a while. A place called Tea From Taiwan also has interesting offerings but seems to have a much higher mark up. TeaHome seems like a bargain by comparison.

Libertatis, did you get that Nantou oolong and if so, how is it? I have had oolong from Nantou that knocked my socks off.

I try not to buy too much Taiwan oolong at a time, because I have had that amazing aroma fade even in unopen bags. In fact, I am very reluctant to buy any now since Spring teas will be coming out soon.

I have really enjoyed drinking this tea the last couple weeks! it is very fresh and has a nice sweetness to it. But you are right, spring Oolongs are just around the corner (personally i couldn't wait )

Also, i usually buy my Oolongs in ~2 oz sealed bags, that way i have a chance to drink a bit of it before the aroma fades!